Naperville candidates discuss downtown safetyBy Justin KmitchAfter a tumultuous 2012 in downtown Naperville, which included a grisly murder, multiple stabbings and several fights, the 11 city council candidates in the April 9 election are offering a variety of proposals to return the area to a more family friendly environment. Police Chief Robert Marshall, who has made cleaning up downtown his top priority, has begun enacting a multifaceted enforcement...

Rain could have been worse; today will beDaily Herald reportTuesday started with record-breaking temperatures and ended with less rain than expected in advance of the cold front that will send us back to normal January weather today. Temperatures reached 60 degrees at O'Hare International Airport at 6:50 a.m., and peaked at 63 degrees at 1:27 p.m., making it the warmest Jan. 29 in history. "We've got a lot of reports of between one and 1½ inches," a...

Cary-Grove parents question simulated gunshots in drill By Elena Ferrarin
Some parents are questioning a decision to have a safety drill Wednesday at Cary-Grove High School that will include simulated gunshots in the hallway. The blank shots will come from a starter's gun fired at the end of the 15-minute "code red" drill, said Jeff Puma, director of communications for Community High School District 155. “If we can save just an additional kid because he hears (a...

Fleetwood Mac to headline AllstateDaily Herald reportThe online presale for tickets to Fleetwood Mac's return to Rosemont begins Wednesday. Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Fleetwood Mac will return to Allstate Arena in Rosemont on Friday, June 14, playing radio staples like “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams” and “Landslide.”

Battle lines drawn in sledgehammer attack trialBy Lee Filas
Sandra Rogers finally had her day in court Tuesday, nearly 10 years after she was arrested in the sledgehammer attack on her ex-husband and his new wife in their Lincolnshire home. Prosecutors said Sandra Rogers swung the hammer in the attack, while defense attorneys claimed it was the boyfriend of her then-teenage daughter, Robin, who attacked Rick Rogers and Angela Gloria on May 19, 2003, and...

More cases dismissed involving accused Schaumburg cops By Barbara Vitello
Legal Affairs Writer
The dominoes continued to fall Tuesday as Cook County prosecutors dropped charges against two more defendants whose cases involved undercover Schaumburg police officers arrested in DuPage County earlier this month on drug conspiracy charges. “We're happy that the state did the right thing,” said Diangelo Beasley's attorney, Cook County Assistant Public Defender Rachel Baker.

Nickel likely to fetch millions at Schaumburg auctionAssociated PressA humble 5-cent coin with a storied past is headed to an auction in Schaumburg and bidding is expected to top $2 million a century after it was mysteriously minted. The 1913 Liberty Head nickel is one of only five known to exist, but it's the coin's back story that adds to its cachet: It was surreptitiously and illegally cast, discovered in a car wreck that killed its owner, declared a fake,...

Teenage girl shot to death in Chicago
Associated PressA teenage Chicago girl who attended presidential inauguration activities in Washington earlier this month was shot to death. Police say 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton was shot in the back Tuesday at a city park and later died at University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital. An unidentified boy was shot in the leg and is being treated at the hospital. No arrests have been made.

As cameras roll, Woodridge murder suspect pleads not guilty By Josh Stockinger
Woodridge murder suspect Adam Belmont on Tuesday became the third DuPage County defendant to have his arraignment photographed in court. With cameras rolling, Belmont, 23, of Northlake, pleaded not guilty to the Dec. 15 slaying of his former girlfriend, Alyssa Van Meter, 25.

Real estate research firm: Bartlett fourth-safest town in U.S.
By Jessica CilellaResidents of Bartlett live in the fourth-safest town with a population of more than 25,000 in the United States, according to the national real estate research firm NeighborhoodScout.The firm recently determined through an analysis of 2011 FBI statistics and data from the U.S. Census Bureau that the chance of becoming a victim of crime in Bartlett is 1 in 135, compared to the U.S. average of 1 in...

Wheeling mayoral candidates debate use of TIF districts By Deborah Donovan
Wheeling's five tax increment financing districts promise to be an issue in the April mayoral election, where former trustee Pat Horcher and Trustee Dean Argiris are challenging incumbent Judy Abruscato. The candidates met with the Daily Herald this week and offered differing ideas on the use of TIF districts and their potential as economic development tool for the village

Aurora man wants hoarding charges dismissed
Associated PressAn Aurora man who was found to have nearly 500 birds inside his feces-filled home says the hoarding charges against him should be dismissed. The attorney for David Skeberdis contended in a Tuesday court filing that Aurora authorities didn't follow the law in charging him with the misdemeanor and impounding the parakeets, cockatoos and other birds in his home.

LaHood Leaves, another vacancy in Obama Cabinet
Associated PressTransportation Secretary Ray LaHood, who lifted the profile of distracted driving as a national safety concern, is stepping down, presenting President Barack Obama with another Cabinet vacancy at the start of his second term. The former congressman from downstate Illinois is one of only two Republicans who served in Obama's Cabinet.

Senate confirms Kerry nomination for State Dept.
Associated PressThe Senate overwhelmingly confirmed President Barack Obama's choice of five-term Sen. John Kerry to be secretary of state, with Republicans and Democrats praising him as the ideal successor to Hillary Rodham Clinton. The vote Tuesday was 94-3.

4 of Illinois’ last 7 governors went to prison
Associated PressFormer Illinois Gov. George Ryan will be leaving prison and heading to a halfway house after serving more than five years for corruption. His departure from prison follows a rich, if ignominious, history in Illinois of ex-governors arriving in and departing from prison. Of Illinois’ last seven governors, four have ended up going to prison. They are:

Ryan faces changed world after prison
Associated PressWhen former Gov. George Ryan steps out of prison on Wednesday after serving five-plus years for corruption, he will return to a life altered by personal tragedy and to a state altered by his and his successor's legacy of corruption. Ryan, who is headed to a halfway house in Chicago, will encounter an Illinois that has enacted reforms meant to thwart the kind of wheeling and dealing the Republican...

A look at life in a halfway house after prison
Associated PressFormer Gov. George Ryan — who’s served more than five years in federal prison on wide-ranging corruption convictions — is expected to be released to a halfway house before he can return to his home. Attorneys say he’ll live, at least for a little while, at a facility in Chicago through a work-release program.Here’s a look at what life is like for a typical resident of a halfway house:

Fox Lake mayoral candidates say hiring economic development director the top priority
By Lee FilasBoth candidates running to be Fox Lake's next mayor said their number-one priority would be to bring in an economic development director. Incumbent Mayor Ed Bender and his challenger, Donald "Donny" Schmit, agreed during a recent candidate endorsement interview at the Daily Herald that the hiring is a requirement to generate business in the village.

Loyola University student accused of rapes
Associated PressA freshman at Chicago's Loyola University has been charged with criminal sexual assault in the rape of two female classmates in their dorm rooms. Colin Cahill Kennedy was arrested after the two 18-year-old women reported the attacks to campus police.

Chicago’s top cop encouraged after Obama meeting
Associated PressChicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy says he was encouraged after meeting with President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden in Washington. McCarthy and other law enforcement officials were in Washington earlier this week to discuss gun control and gun violence.

Soldier with new arms determined to be independent
Associated PressBrendan Marrocco insisted on rolling his own wheelchair into a news conference using his new transplanted arms. Then he brushed his hair to one side. Such simple tasks would go unnoticed in most patients. But for Marrocco, who lost all four limbs while serving in Iraq, these little actions demonstrate how far he's come after a double-arm transplant.

Thousands of pizzas heading to troops
Associated PressThousands of Chicago-style pizzas are headed overseas to members of the military in time for Super Bowl Sunday.The nonprofit group Pizza 4 Patriots has been sending pies to service members since 2008. Their mission is to bring service members the comforts of home while they’re deployed. Gov. Pat Quinn has partnered with the group and DHL Express for the project.

Warrenville mayoral candidates debate flooding
By Robert SanchezThe candidates in Warrenville's mayoral race have differing views on whether Fawell Dam near Naperville should be removed to address flooding problems upstream in Warrenville. "We're doing a lot more in terms of flood mitigation and prevention than what taking the dam out would do," said incumbent David Brummel, who is being challenged by Michael Hoffmann.

Leaders say Wheeling and Prospect Heights are doing wellBy Deborah DonovanMunicipal leaders always try to put on a good face when recounting the past year for business leaders. But the reports Prospect Heights Mayor Nick Helmer and Wheeling Village President Judy Abruscato gave the Wheeling/Prospect Heights Area Chamber of Commerce Tuesday were particularly cheery.

Glen Ellyn rejects crackdown on some businesses
By Christopher PlacekA proposed Glen Ellyn ordinance seeking to regulate jewelry and electronics stores in an attempt to crack down on the sale of stolen goods has been rejected. The village board unanimously voted down the proposal this week after hearing from local business owners who said it would have been too burdensome to comply with the village regulations.

Obama on immigration overhaul: ‘Now is the time’
Associated PressDeclaring "now is the time" to fix the nation's broken immigration system, President Barack Obama on Tuesday outlined broad proposals for putting millions of illegal immigrants on a clear path to citizenship while cracking down on businesses that employ people illegally and tightening security at the borders. He hailed a bipartisan Senate group on a similar track but left unresolved key details...

Naperville board upholds referendum question
By Justin KmitchNaperville voters will once again have a say regarding the system into which they vote their elected officials. The three-member Naperville Electoral Board Tuesday unanimously dismissed a resident's objection to a local group's attempt to ask residents whether they prefer an at-large or ward-based election system.

Restitution ordered in $160,000 Naperville theft
By Josh StockingerA Texas man avoided prison but must pay restitution for stealing more than $100,000 in computer equipment from a Naperville company. Hai Pham, 51, of Houston, pleaded guilty Friday to felony theft and was sentenced to two years of conditional discharge by DuPage County Judge George Bakalis.

Stevenson speechmaking:
Daily Herald reportThe Vernon Area Public Library and the Stevenson High School Foundation will host a program about the witty speechmaking of former Illinois Gov. Adlai E. Stevenson II on Tuesday, Feb. 5.

Lake Zurich downtown redevelopment addressed by mayoral candidates
By Bob SusnjaraThree Lake Zurich mayoral candidates are addressing how best to spark a long-stalled redevelopment of the village's downtown. Mayor Suzanne Branding faces Trustee Tom Poynton and political newcomer Mary Black in the April 9 election. Downtown redevelopment is one village issue the candidates say is often raised by residents, they said during a Daily Herald editorial board interview Tuesday.

Energy savings discussed:
Daily Herald reportThe village of Libertyville hosts an informational meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6 to discuss a federal energy grant program that can help save residents up to $1,750.

Study says leafy greens top food poisoning source
Associated PressA big government study has fingered leafy greens like lettuce and spinach as the leading source of food poisoning, a perhaps uncomfortable conclusion for health officials who want us to eat our vegetables.

Fox Valley police reports
Anthony H. Bruno, 32, of Streamwood, was charged with driving under the influence, DUI with a blood alcohol concentration of more than .08, and improper lane use after a traffic stop at 11:33 p.m. Jan. 20 at Route 25 and May Lane near St. Charles, according to a sheriff's report.

Tri-Cities police reports
Anthony H. Bruno, 32, of Streamwood, was charged with driving under the influence, DUI with a blood alcohol concentration of more than .08, and improper lane use after a traffic stop at 11:33 p.m. Jan. 20 at Route 25 and May Lane near St. Charles, according to a sheriff's report.

ECC Alliance for College Readiness wins college national award
By Tara García MathewsonElgin Community College was recognized Tuesday with the 2012 Bellwether Award, education's equivalent to football's Heisman Trophy. The Community College Futures Assembly chose ECC over hundreds of other schools, declaring its college readiness initiative the top instructional program in the country. "It underscores what we've been doing for a long time, indicating to people that partnership...

Power Point class:
Daily Herald reportA Microsoft PowerPoint 2012 computer class is set for Saturday, Feb. 2 at 9:15 a.m., at the Antioch Public Library, 757 N. Main St.

Freeport drops trespassing charge against Jackson
Associated PressThe city of Freeport dropped trespassing charges against the Rev. Jesse Jackson and 13 other protesters at the request of Sensata Technologies. The civil rights leader participated in a workers protest in October at the Sensata plant.

Former ethics official fined for breaking ethics law
Associated PressA former member of the Illinois panel that conducts hearings on alleged ethics violations has been fined $2,500 for attending a prayer breakfast and fundraiser for a political candidate, according to an ethics commission report released Tuesday.

GOP state senators get extra work, pay after losses
Associated PressRepublicans in the Illinois Senate hold a dubious distinction: Because of a November shellacking, every one of them will have a caucus or leadership post — and the accompanying stipend — in this legislative session.

Legislators join Firearms Working Group
Associated PressFifteen freshman members of the Illinois General Assembly will be part of Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon's new Firearms Working Group. Simon announced the members on Tuesday. Simon says the group will meet with people on both sides of the gun control debate to better inform legislation.

Palatine Park District takes over former Camelot School property
By Kimberly PohlWith village officials shooting down multiple proposals to turn the dilapidated former Camelot School in Palatine into a subdivision, the property instead will become green space known as Meadowlark Park. The Palatine Park District recently acquired the 12 acres near Dundee Road and Northwest Highway for $1.7 million. "Parcels of that size are few and far between," Executive Director Mike Clark...

Two held after St. Charles bust nets cocaine, marijuana
By Harry HitzemanTwo St. Charles residents face felony drug charges after a state police unit searched their home and seized two ounces of cocaine and two pounds of marijuana, with an estimated street value of between $6,500 and $11,100. Michael Stellwagen, 42, and Susanne Russell, 52, are due in court on Feb. 6, according to court records.

ECC readiness initiative up for award
By Tara García MathewsonElgin Community College's Alliance for College Readiness initiative has been recognized on a national stage for being a "cutting-edge, trendsetting" program. ECC is a finalist for the Community College Futures Assembly Bellwether Award, which has recognized noteworthy programs across the country since 1995. Five representatives of the college will give a presentation at the assembly Jan. 28 in...

Images: Warm Weather on Tuesday
Images of warm weather in the suburbs of Chicago on Tuesday. Temperatures soared into the sixties, nearing the all-time record for the warmest January day ever in the suburbs. More seasonable temperatures in the teens and twenties are expected to return later this week.

NRA says more gun control not a serious proposal
Associated PressBanning some assault weapons and requiring background checks for all firearms purchases aren't a serious attempt to reduce gun violence, a top National Rifle Association official warned Tuesday as Congress geared up for the year's first hearing on the subject.

Northwest suburban police blotter
By Freida GadHugo Ramirez, 19, of the 500 block of West Dempster Street, Mount Prospect, was arrested at a condominium building in Arlington Heights and charged with felony burglary and felony possession of burglary tools. Police reports said he pried the coin box on a laundry machine and opened several storage lockers. A witness phoned 911.

Elmhurst College celebrates music of Irving Berlin
Elmhurst College submissionWhether it's "White Christmas," "God Bless America," "No Business Like Show Business" or any of his scores of other hits, Irving Berlin's songs are deeply woven into the fabric of American culture. "I Love a Piano," a lively tribute to Berlin and his music, will be performed beginning Friday, Feb. 1, at Elmhurst College's Mill Theatre.

Lake Park: Both questions must pass to build pool
By Jim DavisIf voters give mixed signals on the building of a new swimming pool for Lake Park High School, the school has formally vowed not to proceed with the project. Two questions will appear on the April 9 ballot — one authorizing the school district to borrow $8 million to build the pool and another to increase taxes to cover the estimated $380,000 needed annually to maintain it. If one fails,...

Naperville marathon sells out in one day
By Marie WilsonNaperville's first marathon and half marathon sold out in about 14 hours, proving to organizers the community is ready and excited to run. Online registration opened at 6 a.m. Monday and closed before 8:30 p.m. when all slots were filled, said Bob Hackett, one of five race directors for the Nov. 10 events. "We were pleasantly surprised that it filled up as quickly as it did," Hackett said...

Buffalo Grove’s Raupp Museum gets $149,250 grant
Daily Herald reportThe Raupp Museum, operated by the Buffalo Grove Park District, will get a state grant to rehabilitate and add to one of its most popular exhibits. The Buffalo Grove Park District will receive a grant for $149,250 toward the Raupp Museum's Buffalo Grove Crossroads Exhibit, formerly the Town Square Exhibit.

Hagel supports nuclear arms cuts, then elimination
Associated PressChuck Hagel, the likely next secretary of defense, would be the first to enter the Pentagon as a public advocate for sharply reducing the number of U.S. nuclear weapons, possibly without equivalent cuts by Russia. He supports an international movement called Global Zero that favors eliminating all nuclear weapons. That puts him outside the orthodoxy embraced by many of his fellow Republicans but...

Wreckage believed to be US F-16 found in Adriatic
Associated PressThe Air Force says Italian rescue teams have recovered debris from the Adriatic Sea that is believed to belong to a U.S. F-16 fighter jet that went missing on Monday after taking off from a base in Italy.

Lawmaker looks outside VA to fill mental care gap
Associated PressVeterans who have trouble getting timely mental health care from Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics should also have access to thousands of health care providers who care for military personnel and their families, says Jeff Miller, R-Fla., chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. "We can double overnight the number of providers for those who are in need," Miller said. "Eighteen...

Ships idle for Miss. River oil cleanup after crash
Associated PressFreight barges were idled among some 50 vessels stacked up Tuesday along a normally bustling stretch of the Mississippi River that was closed as crews worked to clean up leaking oil spilled in a weekend barge accident. Workers have been skimming oily water around the clock near Vicksburg, Miss., since a barge carrying thousands of gallons of oil struck a railroad bridge and began leaking before...

Ohio police captain exonerated of ex-wife’s murder
Associated PressA former Ohio police captain who has spent nearly 15 years in prison in his ex-wife's killing was exonerated Tuesday by a judge who said that new DNA tests proved his innocence and that no reasonable jury that saw the test results would have convicted him.

Focus turns to Brazilian club safety after fire
Associated PressThere was no alarm, no working fire extinguisher, no sprinkler and almost no escape from the nightclub that became a death trap for more than 200 Brazilian college students. As investigators began poking through the rubble and families mourned their dead, the university city in southern Brazil tried to understand how the Sunday morning blaze that killed 231 people could have been sparked in the...

After gun crime, weapon history takes time to find
Associated PressIn the fictional world of television police dramas, a few quick clicks on a computer lead investigators to the owner of a gun recovered at a bloody crime scene. Before the first commercial, the TV detectives are on the trail of the suspect. Reality is a world away. There is no national database of guns. Not of who owns them, how many are sold annually or even how many exist.

Music promoter inks exclusive deal with Lake County FairgroundsBy Mick Zawislak
A deal struck Monday is intended to brand the Lake County Fairgrounds as a go-to venue between the big cities of Chicago and Milwaukee for music and other entertainment. Mark Khayat, owner of Austin's Saloon & Eatery, which includes the 750-seat Fuel Room, has exclusive entertainment rights at the Grayslake facility for five years.

Obama launches push for immigration overhaul
Associated PressSeeking swift action on immigration, President Barack Obama on Tuesday will try to rally public support behind his proposals for giving millions of illegal immigrants a pathway to citizenship, as well as making improvements to the legal immigration system and border security. The president will launch his push in a campaign-style event in Las Vegas, a day after a bipartisan group of senators...

Malian military: In control of city of Timbuktu
Associated PressAs French and Malian soldiers held control of the fabled desert city of Timbuktu following the retreat of Islamist extremists, Tuareg fighters claimed Tuesday that they seized the strategic city of Kidal and other northern towns.

Confirming North Korean nuclear test almost impossible
Associated PressNorth Korea appears all set to detonate an atomic device, but confirming the explosion when it takes place will be virtually impossible for outsiders, specialists said Tuesday. The best indication of a test will be seismic tremors and abnormal radiation in the air, but even that can be masked if North Korea wants to. In all likelihood the first word of the test will come from Pyongyang itself,...

Timbuktu, ancient seat of Islamic learning
Associated PressTimbuktu, the fabled desert city where retreating Muslim extremists destroyed ancient manuscripts, was a center of Islamic learning hundreds of years before Columbus landed in the Americas. It is not known how many of the priceless documents were destroyed by al Qaida-linked fighters who set ablaze a state-of-the-art library built with South African funding to conserve the brittle, camel-hide...

Old Coultrap school has to go, Geneva board decidesBy Susan Sarkauskas
The old, empty Coultrap Elementary School should be demolished, the Geneva school board decided Monday, despite pleas from several people to delay the vote so they could come up with a plan to keep it. "I think you have rammed this down our throats," said Terry Emma, Geneva History Center executive director, whose children attended the school.

Wash. vows to try to keep weed in state — but how?
Associated PressSo far, no one is suggesting checkpoints or fences to keep Washington state's legal pot within its borders. But Gov. Jay Inslee insists there are ways to prevent the bulk smuggling of the state's newest cash crop into the black market, including digitally tracking weed to ensure that it goes from where it is grown to the stores where it is sold.

Cheerleaders work with students
Associated PressAddi Knuffman and Alaina Obert concentrated to get the moves just right. They clambered on to the knees of Liberty High School cheerleaders, first sitting, then standing, carefully balanced and waving their silver poms wearing big smiles. The two 5-year-olds, along with 21-year-old Katie Hugenberg, are adding some extra spark to the cheerleading squad thanks to the Sparkle Effect.

Illinois accuses 14 of unemployment benefit fraud
Associated PressFourteen Illinoisans are accused of defrauding the state by collecting more than $400,000 in unemployment benefits even though they had jobs. Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and the Illinois Department of Employment Security announced indictments against the 14 defendants Tuesday.

Unemployment forms available in Spanish, Polish
Associated PressIllinois applications for unemployment benefits are now available online in Spanish and Polish. Department of Employment Security officials say online applications are preferable to paper ones because of accuracy and efficiency.

Sports

Gold goes from anonymous to famous in 4 minutes By Eileen O. Daday
On any given day, Gracie Gold of Elk Grove Village could have been found training on the ice at rinks in Glen Ellyn or Vernon Hills, skating fairly anonymously under the watchful eye of her coach, Alex Ouriashev. Not anymore. Not after the 17-year-old pulled off one of the biggest upsets in the history of women's figure skating on Saturday. "It was amazing," Gold said afterward.

Deng lobbies to coach Butler in slam-dunk contest By Mike McGraw
Several Bulls players have been pushing for second-year forward Jimmy Butler to play in the rookie-sophomore game during all-star weekend. The discussion kicked up a notch when the topic shifted to the possibility of Butler taking part in the slam-dunk contest, especially from teammate Luol Deng.

Thomas scores 25 to lead No. 11 Buckeyes past BadgersAssociated PressDeshaun Thomas scored 25 points, including 10 during a game-breaking 15-0 second-half run, to lead No. 11 Ohio State past Wisconsin 58-49 on Tuesday night.The leading scorer in the Big Ten, Thomas took over the game as both teams tried to gain leverage in a typically physical matchup between them.

Ray Lewis claims steroid report is 'stupidity' Associated PressOf all the topics Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis wanted to talk about at Super Bowl media day, deer-antler spray probably was not on the list. He declined to directly address in any detail Tuesday questions about a Sports Illustrated report that he sought help from a company that makes the unorthodox product to speed up his recovery from a torn right triceps.

Butler, Deng on floor together for Bulls?By Mike McGrawWith the Bulls facing an uncertain future, trying to revamp a high-priced roster, a new revelation emerged on Monday. Maybe Jimmy Butler is a shooting guard who could play alongside Luol Deng long-term. During the 93-85 victory over Charlotte, Butler spent most of the second half at the position. Butler isn’t convinced he’s a full-time two guard, but he jumped all over the idea of playing at the same time as Deng.

Hawks have right formula behind 6-0 startBy Tim Sassone
You don't get to be 6-0 by pure luck. The Blackhawks have had a few bounces go their way but their franchise-record 6-0 start can be traced to a number of things they've generated themselves: improved goaltending by Corey Crawford, strong special teams play, and the use of four lines and six defensemen, which keeps the Hawks' best players fresh, allowing them to play at a top level.

Kohler paces Lakes victory
Daily Herald reportJake Kohler scored 13 points, and Lakes’ boys basketball team defeated host Carmel Catholic 46-40 Tuesday night.Lakes improved to 17-6 with the nonconference win. Kohler led the way in the defensive battle, coach Chris Snyder said. Justin Bergeron contributed 10 tough points and TJ Edwards played a strong fourth quarter with 8 points to help lead the Eagles to the win.Carmel fell to 8-12 with its third straight loss.

Rolling Meadows clinches in MSL East
Daily Herald reportAfter playing in only one Mid-Suburban League girls basketball championship game in 30 years, Rolling Meadows is now going to the showcase game for the second season in a row. With an 85-29 victory over visiting Wheeling, the Mustangs (23-1) clinched the MSL East on Tuesday with a 9-0 record and one game left on Friday. Meadows will host Fremd (21-7, 7-2) for the MSL crown a week from today.

Fremd repeats in West
By John LeuschFremd senior starter Catherine Ernst admitted she was a little nervous when the Vikings were nursing a 4-point halftime lead at Conant on Tuesday night. “We knew we had to take a step back, take a deep breath and come back out making the hustle plays,” she said. The defending Mid-Suburban League West champs did exactly that.They kept the pressure on for all 16 minutes and now there’s no pressure at all in terms of the divisional race. That’s because the Vikings clinched their fourth straight West crown by posting a 42-20 decision while second-place Palatine fell to Schaumburg 52-51.

Wheaton Academy charges past IC
By Dave OberhelmanBasketball teams will conduct “charge” drills where a defensive player plants square in front of an oncoming offensive player. This drill typically occurs in practice. In Tuesday’s Wheaton Academy and IC Catholic Prep boys game it played out live.

Bolger paces Schaumburg victory
Daily Herald reportSchaumburg 49, Glenbrook South 41: Senior guard Kyle Bolger led the way for the host Saxons (12-8) in a nonconference victory with 21 points.

Geneva closing in on another title Daily Herald reportsGeneva 48, Elgin 38: The Vikings (15-10, 9-2) inched closer to another Upstate Eight Conference River Division title behind 17 points from Sami Pawlak and 9 from Sidney Santos.

Stevenson blocks out Glenbard West By Joe Aguilar
A couple of Nathan Marcus’ future football coaches at Vanderbilt University came to watch the all-state tight end play basketball at Stevenson on Tuesday night. Another dandy was on display for Vandy, too. Matt Morrissey, an all-state football player himself, and his Stevenson teammates prevailed in an appropriately physical battle. The Patriots received a game-high 21 points and 8 rebounds from sophomore point guard Jalen Brunson in a 61-47 nonconference win that stretched their winning streak to six games.

Neuqua Valley does well, Naperville North does better
By Chris WalkerNeuqua Valley girls gymnastics coach Jo Ann Pschigoda had been waiting all season for the Wildcats to put it all together. The Wildcats scored a season-best 135.2 points at Tuesday’s Neuqua Valley regional but fell short of Naperville North, which claimed the regional title with 137.925 points. Sandburg/Stagg co-op was third with a 127.4 and Andrew was fourth with a 127.175. “We did have a few bobbles, but the thing is they kept working,” Naperville North coach Chris Stanicek said. “I think they’re confident and they’re where they need to be right now with the right mindset, with their routines and their conditioning.”

Lake County roundup
Daily Herald reportGrayslake North’s girls basketball team netted its 22nd win, a program record, by defeating host Waukegan 60-32 Tuesday night.The Knights dominated each quarter, leading 30-11 at halftime. Brittney Thibeaux led the scoring with 19 points. Kendall Detweiler had 12 points, and Emily Dugan added 10 for Grayslake North (22-2).Vernon Hills 53, Antioch 43: Sydney Smith scored 16 points, grabbed 4 rebounds and added 4 assists, as the Cougars (23-2, 11-0) clinched the North Suburban Prairie Division championship.Lauren Webb added 14 points and 6 rebounds, and Alina Lehocky tallied 7 points and 5 rebounds.Antioch (15-10) was led by Carly McCameron, who came up strong in the paint, scoring 11 points and pulling in a team-high 13 rebounds. Megan Borries hit three 3-pointers in the third quarter to shoot her way out of a recent shooting slump. She also helped lead the Antioch offense, which gained a lead late in the fourth quarter before succumbing to the Cougars. Grayslake Central 46, Johnsburg 31: The Rams improved their record to 16-9 and 9-1 in the Fox Valley Fox Division, as Morgan Dahlstrom led the way with 14 points.Carson Sparkman added 12 points for Grayslake Central.Libertyville 41, Lake Forest 25: Haley Hoeksel scored 13 points, and Olivia Mayer added 10, as the visiting Wildcats improved to 11-13 and 6-5 in the North Suburban Lake.Lakes 49, Grant 27: The Eagles dominated every quarter on Senior Night, leading 14-6 after the first quarter, finishing the half up 27-11 and ending the third ahead 37-20.Lakes improved its record to 15-11 and 9-2 in the North Suburban Prairie Division.Lakes seniors Dayna Olson, Nicole Mogged, Shelby Trkla, Amanda Smith and Terese McMahon started.“Each of these kids has started during the season and I am comfortable playing any of them,” Eagles coach Pete Schneider said. “It was fun to see them all playing together. These kids are a big part of the turnaround of Lakes’ women’s basketball. They have put the time in and support each other very well. This team is not done yet. We have some unfinished goals.McMahon scored 15 points, shooting 7 of 8 from the free throw line. Trkla added 8 points.Michelle Filip and AnaRose Hebein scored 6 points apiece for Grant (9-15, 4-7).

A-Rod implicated in PED use againAssociated PressAlex Rodriguez denied a newspaper report that accused him of buying human growth hormone and other performance-enhancing substances from a Miami-area clinic. The Miami New Times, an alternative weekly, reported Tuesday that it obtained records detailing purchases by Rodriguez, Melky Cabrera, Gio Gonzalez, Bartolo Colon, Nelson Cruz and Yasmani Grandal from a clinic called Biogenesis, run by Anthony Bosch.

Fremd absorbs beam bobbles; Meadows' Johnston excelsBy Michael Eaken
Fremd wobbled a bit at the finish, but the Viking were able to keep it together. Fremd cruised through the first two events on the vault (36.475) and bars (36.775) and looked to be headed for an impressive score. The beam (34.825) put a dent in the Vikings’ attack, but they survived four falls in winning a 21st consecutive regional title with 143.525 points at their own gym in Palatine. Lake Park took second with 136.275 points, followed by Rolling Meadows (130.575), and Maine West (115.175). Fremd advances to its own sectional next Monday at 6:30 p.m.

Dundee-Crown gets past McHenry
By Jerry FitzpatrickA basketball player need not be a prolific scorer to be a catalyst, a lesson Dundee-Crown senior Jack Buckley imparted for the second straight game in Tuesday’s 44-40 victory over visiting McHenry. Dundee-Crown (14-5, 5-2 Fox Valley Conference Valley Division) led 37-25 entering the fourth quarter, but McHenry (9-10, 2-5) trimmed the deficit to a point on senior guard Korey Partenheimer’s strong drive from the left elbow with 1:03 remaining.

Larkin brushes aside South Elgin
By Steve NicholsAsk the Larkin boys basketball team what’s going on Friday night in Elgin, the Royals will tell you what’s up. They’re well aware of their matchup with crosstown rival Elgin at Chesbrough Field House. But think again if the Royals had the opposite approach for South Elgin, nor the idea of taking the Storm lightly. Even with a freshman-laden Storm team 10 games under 500, Larkin considers South Elgin a rival and the Royals wanted to deliver a clear message. Consider a 70-51 Upstate Eight crossover win in Elgin a message sent, as Kendale McCullum spearheaded a defensive attack and led the Royals with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals.

Seniors step up as Hersey rolls
By Bill EsbrookIn an emotional pregame ceremony at Ken Carter Gymnasium, Hersey celebrated the accomplishments of its seven senior players. But the upperclassmen didn’t let the festivities stop there. Led by Ashley Raulli, who Huskies coach Mary Fendley said “had the best game of her career,” Hersey defeated visiting Elk Grove 39-22 on senior night to move into a second-place tie with the Grens in the Mid-Suburban East.

All-around success for Stochl; Great start for Carmel
By Rusty SilberMaking another trip to the girls gymnastics state meet would be something special for Warren’s Becky Stochl next month at Palatine High School. Stochl reached the preliminaries last year on vault, and she’s well on her way to repeating the feat — and then some. Stochl started the state series by qualifying in all four events and the all-around Tuesday night at the Glenbrook North regional in Northbrook. Three-time defending state champion Carmel Catholic captured the regional championship with 144.85 and Warren was runner-up at 134.85. Carmel senior Lauren Feely flew to top honors in all four events and the all-around (38.325).

WW South goes toe to toe with Fenwick and wins
By Joshua WelgeMeghan Waldron has probably been asked about her team’s injuries about 1,000 times this season. It was hard to avoid that theme Tuesday. And once again, Waldron and Wheaton Warrenville South won a game of attrition. With both teams missing two injured starters, the No. 4 Tigers built a 14-point lead on Fenwick through three quarters, then held on for a 65-63 win in Wheaton.

Hero time: Fish, Grayslake N. edge Rolling Meadows
By Marty MaciaszekOne of A.J. Fish’s biggest fans is little Kennedy Grunloh. It was easy to see why the 3½-year-old daughter of Grayslake North coach Todd Grunloh is among those who have admired Fish’s athletic feats at the school. And Tuesday night was another memorable one when Rolling Meadows visited for a boys basketball nonconference game. Fish was honored beforehand for breaking the 1,000-point mark in his career with 28 in Friday’s win over Grayslake Central. That career-high didn’t last long as the 6-foot-3 senior hit his last 10 shots from the field and scored 23 of his 29 points after halftime as the Knights (13-7) held on for a 66-64 victory.

West Aurora rallies by Naperville Central
By John LemonWest Aurora came out in its same white home uniforms for the second half Tuesday night of its DuPage Valley Conference game with Naperville Central, but the Blackhawks looked like an entirely different team. That same West Aurora squad that made 7 of 26 field goal attempts for 26.9 percent shooting in the first half canned 8 of 10 in the third quarter and 10 of 13 in the fourth for a blistering 78.2 percent mark in the second half. The Blackhawks needed that sizzling shooting to hold off a determined and improving Naperville Central team 57-52, maintaining their tie for the DVC lead with Glenbard East.

Boys basketball/Fox Valley roundup
Daily Herald reportBurlington Central 63, North Boone 24: Ryan Ritchie had 11 points and Moter Deng added 9 as the Rockets (7-13, 5-1) rolled to an easy Big Northern East win. Reed Hunnicutt added 8 points for Burlington Central.Westminster Christian 35, Faith Lutheran 18: Will Woodhouse scored 12 points to lead the Warriors to a nonconference win in a game that was called at halftime due to condensation in Faith Lutheran’s gym from the rainstorm. Colin Brandon added 8 points for Westminster (12-11), which won its fifth straight.

Smiles all around for Wheeling
By Ryan O’GaraAs Chris Pierro, Nate Majkowski, Nick Riccardi, Kameron Hill and Nate Laude walked off Wheeling's floor Tuesday night, they were all smiles. And they had plenty of reason to be happy. The Wildcats overcame an 8-point second half deficit and got a game-winning free throw from Majkowski before Maine West's potential game-winning shot glanced off the rim at the buzzer to give Wheeling a 43-42 victory.

Huntley stays unbeaten in FVC Valley
By Allen OshinskiWith Huntley's boys basketball team trailing Prairie Ridge in the second quarter, Marty Manning called a timeout. The Red Raiders' coach got in his players' faces about their intensity, or lack thereof. The Raiders responded with a 12-0 run and eventually cruised to a 56-30 home victory Tuesday night. Jake Wagner scored 12 points, and Amanze Egekeze added 10 as Huntley improved to 13-6 overall and 7-0 in the Fox Valley Conference Valley Division.

Walther Lutheran runs past St. Edward
By Brian SchaumburgThe St. Edward boys basketball team didn't want to play a fast-paced game Tuesday night against Walther Lutheran. It happened though and it cost the Green Wave. The Broncos picked up the pace late in the first quarter to rally from an 18-9 deficit to beat the host Green Wave, 75-54.

Crystal Lake S. shoots past Cary-Grove
By Dave HessCrystal Lake South boys basketball coach Matt LePage just needed to look at the shot chart and the assist statistic to crack a smile. Sharing the ball to get high percentage shots, the Gators connected on 20 layups and collected 18 assists in posting a 67-54 Fox Conference Valley Division win over Cary-Grove in Cary Tuesday night.

By design, Bellecomo will direct the action at Vernon HillsBy Joe Aguilar
Those football plays that li'l Bill Bellecomo used to carve in his yard are long gone. They left an indelible mark, however. "My old man used to catch me in the back yard drawing them up in the dirt," Bellecomo, Ray Bellecomo's boy, said with a laugh. Not that Bellecomo will draw up a play from his boyhood days when he directs Vernon Hills' football team in the fall. But suffice it to say, he will draw on experience, from his days as a kid, to his days as a football player at Willowbrook High, to his years as an assistant coach studying under three highly successful high school head coaches.

Westminster Christian makes it 10 straight
By John RadtkeWestminster Christian girls basketball coach Ken Flickinger wasn't the happiest guy in town with the way his team played defense in the first half Tuesday night. So the Warriors did something about it, and their coach was all smiles by game's end. Westminster held Ottawa Marquette Academy to just 12 points in the final 16 minutes and turned a 1-point halftime advantage into a 20-point win, beating the Class 2A Crusaders 54-34 in nonconference action in Elgin. The win was the Warriors' 10th straight and ran their season record to 21-4. They can tie the school record for wins in a season set by last year's sectional finalist with a win at Keith Country Day in the regular-season finale Friday. Westminster is the No. 1 seed in next week's Class 1A Harvest Christian regional.

Quenneville likes what he sees from Saad
By Tim SassoneBrandon Saad may be scoreless through five games, but he isn't going anywhere right now. Coach Joel Quenneville likes what he has seen of the 20-year-old left winger on the top line with Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa, and what he brings to the ice.

Arlington releases stakes race schedule
Daily Herald News ServicesThe International Festival of Racing will return to Arlington International Racecourse on Aug. 17 with the 31st running of the Grade I Arlington Million. Track officials released a 2013 thoroughbred racing schedule Tuesday that includes 25 stakes races worth $5.5 million.

Now retired, McBride still gets his kicks from soccer By Orrin Schwarz
Brian McBride walks briskly into a local Starbucks, fresh from a workout, his familiar broad smile beaming. Retirement seems to agree with him. The former U.S. soccer star still keeps his hand in the game, as Orrin Schwarz details in this report on the Arlington Heights native.

Boys basketball: Top 20 rankingsBenet (19-3), West Aurora (16-3) and Neuqua Valley (20-2) are the top 3 teams in this week's Daily Herald Top 20 boys basketball rankings.

Katrina’s scars harder to see as Super Bowl looms
Associated PressNew Orleans has celebrated plenty of milestones on its slow road to recovery from Hurricane Katrina, but arguably none is bigger than hosting its first Super Bowl since the 2005 storm left the city in shambles. To see the remnants of Katrina's destruction, fans coming to town for Sunday's game will have to stray from the French Quarter and the downtown corridor where the Superdome is located.

This won’t be a fun week for NFL’s Roger Goodell
By Mike NorthWith the Super Bowl being in New Orleans this year, the timing couldn't have been worse for NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. His football decisions have been a bit off the mark, and Mike North thinks New Orleans Saints fans will be pretty vocal about their disapproval. North also weighs in on whether Tiger Woods is ready to win the Masters again.

Images: Daily Herald prep photos of the week
The Prep Photos of the Week gallery includes the best high school sports pictures by Daily Herald photographers. This week's gallery features photos from basketball, wrestling and gymnastics and swimming.

Business

Super Bowl advertisers tease viewers Associated PressSuper Bowl advertisers are learning the art of the tease. Supermodel Kate Upton appears in an online Mercedes-Benz video in a low-cut top. An unknown man wakes up with his face covered in smeared lipstick and his hands bound in furry handcuffs in a Gildan Activewear clip. And “30 Rock” star Tracy Morgan seemingly curses in a spot for Kraft’s Mio flavored drops. “Hey, can you say (bleep) on TV?” he says in the spot titled “Bleep.”

Abbott says North Chicago facility not affected by layoffsBy Anna Marie Kukec
Daily Herald Business Writer
Abbott Laboratories confirmed Tuesday that an unspecified number of layoffs have been taking place as the news buzzed across pharmaceutical message boards online. “They almost entirely relate to previously announced actions,” said Scott Stoffel. “We're not providing additional detail.” Last October, Abbott announced it would cut about 550 jobs globally — including about 100 from its headquarters in Libertyville Township and a Des Plaines office — while “several hundred” more layoffs were expected in 2013.

Hostess set to announce bidder for Twinkies
Associated PressThe indestructible Twinkie appears to be one step closer to a comeback. Hostess Brands is close to announcing that it has picked two investment firms as the lead bidders for its Twinkies and other snack cakes.

Palatine chamber brings out its stars for annual dinner
Submitted by the Palatine Area Chamber of CommerceThe Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated at its fourth annual "Key to Success" Awards and Installation Dinner on Jan. 24, where more than 100 guests were in attendance. "It was a pleasure to be able to thank and award all the amazing work that is being done within our chamber," said chamber Director Mindy Phillips.

Judge OKs $4 billion BP oil spill criminal settlement
Associated PressA federal judge on Tuesday approved an agreement for BP PLC to plead guilty to manslaughter and other charges and pay a record $4 billion in criminal penalties for the company's role in the 2010 oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico.

Report: States force jobless to pay needless fees Associated PressJobless Americans are paying millions in unnecessary fees to collect unemployment benefits because of state policies encouraging them to get the money through bank-issued payment cards, according to a new report from a consumer group. People are using the fee-heavy cards instead of getting their payments deposited directly to their bank accounts. That's because states issue bank cards automatically, require complicated paperwork or phone calls to set up direct deposit and fail to explain the card fees, according to a report issued Tuesday,

Overdue student loans reach ‘unsustainable’ 15%
Bloomberg NewsDelinquency rates on student loans made in the past two years stand at 15 percent in the U.S. as recent graduates struggle to find jobs, Fair Isaac Corp. said. The rate for 2010 through 2012 compares with 12.4 percent for loans made from 2005 to 2007, Fair Isaac's FICO Labs said in a statement today, citing data from October. Average student- loan debt last year rose to $27,253 from $17,233 in 2005, and almost 60 percent of bank managers surveyed in December expect delinquencies to worsen in six months, FICO said.

U.S. home prices accelerate in November
Associated PressU.S. home prices accelerated in November compared with a year ago, pushed higher by rising sales and a tighter supply of available homes. The Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller 20-city home price index rose 5.5 percent in November compared with the same month a year ago. That's the largest year-over-year gain in six years. Alll but one of the cities in the index posted annual gains. The largest gains was in Phoenix, where prices jumped nearly 23 percent.

Apple unveils iPad with more memory
Associated PressApple says it will sell an iPad with more memory than the current models available. Apple Inc. said Tuesday that the new, full-size model comes with 128 gigabytes of memory, up from 64 gigabytes. Nothing else has changed, so it will remain a fourth-generation iPad, which went on sale in November. The memory increase does not apply to the iPad Mini, which also went on sale in November.

Ford earns $1.6B in 4Q, tops Wall Street forecast
Associated PressFord earned $1.6 billion in the fourth quarter as sales rose in every region outside Europe. Ford's net income fell from $13.6 billion in the same quarter last year, but that figure included a big accounting-related gain. Without that gain, Ford's earnings were up from $1 billion in the fourth quarter of last year.

Yahoo sales top analysts’ estimates on online search demand
Bloomberg NewsYahoo! Inc. reported fourth-quarter revenue that topped analysts' estimates and increased annual sales for the first time since 2008 as the largest U.S. Web portal benefited from buoyant demand for online search. Fourth-quarter earnings, excluding some items, were 32 cents a share, Yahoo said in a statement. Sales, excluding revenue passed to partner sites, rose 4 percent $1.22 billion. Analysts on average had projected profit of 28 cents on revenue of $1.21 billion, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Oil rises as US, China manufacturing improves
Associated PressThe price of oil rose Tuesday, boosted by improvements in manufacturing in the world's two largest economies. Benchmark oil for March delivery was up 29 cents to $96.73 per barrel at late afternoon Bangkok time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract rose 56 cents to finish at $96.44 a barrel on the Nymex on Monday.

Canada, Holland: WhatsApp violates privacy norms
Associated PressRegulators in the Netherlands and Canada say that popular messaging application WhatsApp is violating internationally accepted privacy norms by stockpiling phone numbers belonging to people who don't even use the service.

Asia stocks rise as Wall Street flirts with highs
Associated PressAsian stock markets posted modest gains Tuesday as the feel-good factor lingered from near-record highs on Wall Street and signs of an upswing in U.S. manufacturing.Analysts at DBS Bank Ltd. in Singapore said that benchmarks in South Korea and Taiwan are recuperating after recent sell-offs amid worries that the depreciating yen will hurt economic growth in those countries. South Korea release its January trade figures later this week and Taiwan reports fourth quarter economic growth.

TV veteran developing news show for Fuse
Associated PressThe Fuse television network has turned to news veteran Rick Kaplan, who has run CNN and MSNBC and produced programs like "Nightline," to develop a music news program aimed largely at people some 40 years younger than him."Fuse News" is set to debut Feb. 6 at 8 p.m. Eastern time with pre-Grammy Awards coverage. The half-hour show, originating from Fuse's studios across from Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, will be repeated at midnight.

Antigua gets OK to become copyright haven
Associated PressAmericans call it piracy. Antiguans call it justice. The islands of Antigua and Barbuda are threatening to strip intellectual property protections from American goods as part of a long-running trade dispute over the U.S. embargo on the tiny Caribbean nation's online gambling industry.

Philips profit beats analyst estimates on health-care revenue
Bloomberg NewsRoyal Philips Electronics NV, the world's largest lighting manufacturer, reported fourth-quarter profit that beat analysts' estimates, helped by demand for medical equipment and job cuts. Earnings before interest, taxes, amortization and one-time items rose 50 percent to 875 million euros ($1.2 billion), the Amsterdam-based company said today in a statement. The estimate of analysts in a Bloomberg survey was for 866 million euros. Sales gained 6.7 percent to 7.16 billion euros.

Congress passes $50.5B Superstorm Sandy aid bill
Associated PressThree months after Superstorm Sandy ravaged coastal areas in much of the Northeast, Congress on Monday sent a $50.5 billion emergency relief measure for storm victims to President Barack Obama for his signature. "I commend Congress for giving families and businesses the help they deserve, and I will sign this bill into law as soon as it hits my desk," Obama said in a statement late Monday.

U.S. economy gets lift from housing, other tailwinds
Associated PressThe U.S. economy is a study in contrasts. The housing, banking and auto industries are surging back to health and that has helped push the stock market to a five-year peak. Higher prices for homes and stocks tend to make people feel wealthier and spend more. Yet unemployment remains high and hiring modest. The end of a Social Security tax cut is shrinking already flat pay. Federal budget fights have put businesses and consumers on edge.

Life & Entertainment

Don’t force the creation of special family memories
By Carolyn HaxThis mom has a favorite song that she sings to her 9-month-old daughter. She would like to discourage other family members from singing this special song to her daughter. Is that a realistic thought?

Hot bowl of fish soup melts winter doldrumsBy M. Eileen BrownI don't know about you, but February requires an extra bit of effort on my part in order to maintain even a semblance of good cheer. Come February my spirits need a little bolstering. The perfect antidote to my winter of discontent is a nice decadent bowl of cioppino.

Judd announces separation from Franchitti
Associated PressAshley Judd and Dario Franchitti are separating after 11 years of marriage. Judd's spokeswoman confirmed a Tuesday report from People magazine that the 44-year-old actress and 39-year-old Scottish race car driver are ending their marriage.

Park Ridge native following in father's footstepsBy Deborah Pankey
Daily Herald Food Editor
Chef Jimmy Bannos Jr grew up with a famous chef father -- Heaven on Seven founder Jimmy Bannos -- but he has stepped out of his father's shadow, earning accolades from local and national media for his culinary prowess at The Purple Pig in Chicago. Read how this Maine South High School graduate evolved into The Prince of Pork.

Don’t be selfish with grandchild during the holidays
By Carolyn HaxGrandparents want to know if they can ask son to alternate Christmases so they can spend time with their only grandchild during the holiday. Carolyn Hax says be happy you've won the grandchild lottery and leave well enough alone.

Houser returns with radio-ready album Associated PressThere's little coincidence that Randy Houser's new album, "How Country Feels," arrives just as the title track reaches No. 1 on the country radio charts. The Mississippi singer earned his first chart-topper with the initial single from his most radio-friendly album. Stuffed with country soul-inflected mid-tempo arrangements that highlight Houser's rich voice, there's likely a few more hits among its 15 tracks.

‘Pretty Little Liars’ star’s heart lies in music
Associated PressOn the ABC Family series "Pretty Little Liars," which airs at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, Lucy Hale's character, Aria, has a passion for fashion. In real life, Hale channels her emotions through music. The 23-year-old was among the winners in 2003 of "American Juniors," a spinoff of "American Idol," where the final five formed a vocal quintet. When they broke up, she went into acting. Now she's decided to give music another go, and she's currently recording a country album.

No plans for Queen Elizabeth to retire
Associated PressOne European queen has announced her retirement. Any chance Europe's most famous queen — Elizabeth II of Britain — might join her? Not likely, experts say. The spectacle of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands stepping down in April at age 75 so her 45-year-old son can become king is sparking some speculation in Britain about whether Elizabeth might follow suit so her eldest son, Prince Charles, can start his reign.

Robert Crais' 'Suspect' is action-packed, deeply touching Associated PressAuthor Robert Crais unwinds the plot of "Suspect" slowly at first, devoting the first half to developing the relationship between two damaged but determined partners. But in the second half, the suspense is high and the pace blistering. Still, the best part is the interaction between Scott and Maggie (yes, a dog) as they struggle to overcome PTSD and discover that each offers the other the best chance for a new start in life.

Taylor Swift talks sexier look, new tour
Associated PressTaylor Swift has been turning heads with her new, sexy wardrobe, but the 23-year-old says it's just a reflection of getting older. Swift has people buzzing about her recent red carpet choices, which have included plunging necklines and shorter skirts. "As far as wardrobe, we have been operating from a different place," Swift said. Swift's new look is a reflection of her overall maturation, with her latest album, "Red," selling more than 3 million copies since it was released last fall.

Cook of the Week: Summer, fall harvest enjoyed year-round By Sally Eyre
Despite the fact that temperatures have plunged and the world is encased in ice, Rose Allen still enjoys the benefits of her summer garden. "It's a joy for me to grow my own veggies. You don't need a lot of space," the Hoffman Estates woman says. "This year I grew collard greens, kale, broccoli, tomatoes and peppers. When I grow them, I know what I'm getting. Of course I don't use pesticides."

fun. caps crazy year with six Grammy nods Associated PressThe band fun. has been on a wild ride since its dark pop-rock sophomore album, "Some Nights," was released last February. They performed at an inaugural ball, and had one of last year's biggest anthems with the six-time platinum No. 1 hit "We Are Young." The group's second single and title track is a multiplatinum radio smash. And now, the band approaches the Grammys with six nominations.

Prospect grad creates 'Zero Dark Thirty' sound effects By Jamie Sotonoff and Dann GireProspect High graduate Alex Ullrich works as a Foley artist in Hollywood. He's the guy who supplies the sounds you hear in movies, cartoons and TV shows. Every sound he adds is in postproduction. "You start with a scene that's completely blank, sound-wise. By the time we're done with it, it's completely alive!" he said.

Discuss

Editorial: Crime, cops and the privilege of a pensionThe Daily Herald Editorial BoardA Daily Herald editorial says the case of a former Round Lake Beach police officer convicted of a sex crime is an example of why Illinois should toughen pension forfeiture regulations to include crimes committed while off duty.

Recipe for a conservative revival
By George WillColumnist George Will: In the rhetorical cotton candy of his inaugural address — sugary, and mostly air — Obama spoke of "investing in" rising generations, and said: "America's possibilities are limitless." He ignores the encroaching limits imposed on the nation by his policies that are funded by debt that will burden those generations.

Questions that need asking
By Eugene RobinsonColumnist Eugene Robinson: The correct U.S. response is not to go looking for wars to fight; we've been there, done that. But neither should we blithely ignore developments that may turn into threats.

Say no to same-sex ‘marriage’
A Barrington letter to the editor: The true agenda of gay "marriage," portraying the homosexual lifestyle as normal to our children, no matter the parents' beliefs, is not acceptable in Illinois. Call your representatives and tell them no on homosexual "marriage."

Bouquet from proud Elgin resident
An Elgin letter to the editor: I thank the city of Elgin for its long-range efforts to manage this city. After surveying many suburbs for over two years, I decided to make Elgin my retirement home. In the six years I have lived here, I have increasingly celebrated that decision.

Let Biden, LaPierre debate gun control
A Mundelein letter to the editor: Like most everyone, I am deeply saddened by the massacre that occurred at Sandy Hook. But, I must say, I am growing weary with the bombardment of media attention on the topic of gun control.

Editorial missed mark on Metra raises
A letter to the editor: One of our goals has always been to make sure Metra is in the best position to attract and retain qualified workers by having a fair, appropriate, sustainable and competitive pay plan.

Debt ceiling talk should be about spending
A Long Grove letter to the editor: If there is a limit on a credit card, and that bill is not being paid, would Visa/MasterCard raise your spending limit? It's pretty simple math, President Obama, so stop your bullying and blame with remarks like "we don't want to hold a gun at the head of the American people."

Fear of government hardly a paranoia
An Elgin letter to the editor: On Jan. 17, Richard Cohen calls the Americans that fear their government paranoid. Well, after World War I in 1932, when the veterans that were promised a bonus camped out on the White House lawn wanting their bonus, the government responded. The president told the military to clear the lawn.

One Muslim’s
love of the USA
A Bensenville letter to the editor: On Jan. 21, I celebrated one of the most important aspects of being free. Regardless of one's political affiliation, the pride and honor we feel in being free to choose our nation's leader is humbling. Considering in many parts of the world individuals have a choice I'm thankful I do.

What will
justices do next?
What will justices do next?In an earlier Supreme Court decision regarding the Second Amendment and gun ownership, self-proclaimed strict constructionists arbitrarily chose to ignore the word “militia.” If the new Congress enacts laws that, in any way, limit access to arms, will those same justices choose to ignore the words “well regulated”?Donald G. Westlake Wheaton

Rep. Roskam, do the people’s work
Rep. Roskam, do the people’s workRecently we inaugurated President Obama for his second term. His speech referred often to “We, the People.” In this speech, the president pointed out, “Progress does not compel us to settle centuries-long debates about the role of government for all time — but it does require us to act in our time. For now decisions are upon us, and we cannot afford delay. We cannot mistake absolutism for principle, or substitute spectacle for politics, or treat name-calling as reasoned debate. We must act, knowing that our work will be imperfect.”Rep. Peter Roskam voted on Jan. 15 against the HR 152 Disaster Relief Appropriations Act. This legislation was for Hurricane Sandy relief and Republican New Jersey Governor Chris Christie spoke candidly and publicly about the shameless, do-nothing politics of the Republican led House of Representatives when they initially adjourned before taking the legislation to a vote. The next act we can anticipate is games about raising the debt ceiling (something which we have never failed to do) — a process that, at the minimum, will cause uncertainty around the world over whether the U.S. will pay its debts on time. Americans cannot continue to tolerate representatives who substitute “absolutism for principle.” Representative Roskam, do the people’s work.Lane R. ReedGlen Ellyn